A Chef’s Guide to the French Quarter in New Orleans

Photo by Denny Culbert, Courtesy of Angeline

Caroline Hallemann

With dishes ranging from Mississippi rabbit milanese to Southern fried quail to burgers made with grass-fed beef from his grandpa’s farm, Chef Alex Harrell’s Angeline is making quite the impression on the New Orleans food scene. An impressive feat that is only amplified by the restaurant’s location in the French Quarter, one of the city’s oldest and most popular neighborhoods.

“What excited me most about being in the French Quarter is that I’m part of a history—it’s almost a 300 year legacy of food,” said Harrell. “I’m in the same neighborhood as landmarks like Antoine’s and Galatoire's, and being a part of that culture, cooking in a city that I came up idolizing, to finally have that opportunity, is amazing. It’s a challenge. I jokingly tell people all the time that besides my children, it’s the most thrilling thing, but also the most terrifying thing that I’ve ever done.”

Just in time for Mardi Gras, Harrell shares his favorite spots to grab a bite near Angeline. So step away from the beignets and the bourbon milk punch, and explore what’s new in the lower French Quarter.

La Divina Gelateria

La Divina Gelateria is a from-scratch cafe serving great lunch sandwiches. I love it for their amazing gelato and sorbets made from fresh, local ingredients. We serve their ice creams at Angeline because their approach to sourcing and passion for making quality products is exactly what we're doing at the restaurant.

Spitfire Coffee

For great coffee, espresso, and hot tea, stop by Spitfire Coffee. Technically, it's a block or two outside of the Lower Quarter, but it's worth walking the few extra minutes.

Crescent City Farmer’s Market

Cane and Table

On Decatur Street is a bar called Cane and Table that's doing cool things highlighting rum and has some great small plate options. I like to recommend it to people for drinks, especially when the weather is warm.